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Wednesday, 11 January 2017

A bit of personal news!

I am a great believer in calling a spade a spade
so this is to let you know I have been diagnosed with terminal cancer with a
ball park figure from the oncologist of around 6 months to countdown. I will do
as much blogging of new books as I can in that time but don’t be surprised if
it becomes a bit spasmodic.

Barbara, we haven't met but I wanted to write and say that I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I've been a reader of your blog for years, and think you do an amazing job providing these reviews that I know many many school librarians follow and value. Hope to keep reading more of them, as and when you can manage. Keeping you in my thoughts.

Hi Barbara, so sorry to hear this sad news. Your publication 'Around the Bookshops' was a lifeline for me when I stepped out of the classroom and into library work and the world of children's literature. Thinking of you and sending positive vibes.

Barbara, this news gave me quite a jolt this morning, yet we have never met. I am another school librarian who has followed your blog for many years and have found it very valuable in my work. Thank you for all that you have done and are doing with this blog. I am one of the many who will be sending positive thoughts your way.

Dear Barbara, I'm so sorry to hear this news. I've met and talked with you a few times at Clarke's with the others and think you are a lovely lady and a talented writer. You told me once if you have any negative thoughts you fill your mind to the brim with happy light thoughts. I will be sending such thoughts to you as well. Take good care and know you have a lot of support and love around you. Love Bridgette xxxx

Dear Barbara, so sorry to hear this news. It has always been a highlight for me at every book-related event to know I can rely on your cheery welcoming smile, your interest in and concern for others and your indepth knowledge of children's books and literature. Thinking of you with lots of love and gratitude xxxx

We'll have to get onto your book then! Oh, Barbara, I am so very sad that the world will lose your shining, gorgeous self. The way you are in the world: strong, funny, kind and deeply in love with books makes you a hero in my eyes. Thank you for being you and for being such a great support to writers (and publishers) in this country. All strength to you. And I'm not joking about the book ...

Oh Barbara, That is so sad to hear. You are such an inspirational woman, I am so grateful to know you and see the work that you do. Indefatigable is an excellent word for your work, and your attitude to life. I look forward to your last blog pieces, and we'd love to have something from you on The Sapling too. xxx Sarah Forster

Very sad to hear this news. Thank you for everything you've done for children's literature, and thank you for making me feel welcome in the Wellington children's book world when I first turned up on your doorstep for Storylines all those years ago. It meant a lot to me xx

So sad to hear your news! A bookgroup meeting isn't the same when you aren't there to mutter an irreverant comment or show off the latest masterpiece. I'm sending thoughts, prayers, hugs and heartfelt wishes that you will exit stage left... not pursued by a bear... but with the dignity and humour that you show to everyone... Love you to bits! Maureen

Thank you for telling us, Barbara - it wouldn't have been easy to do. Take it easy, do lots of your favourite activities, catch up with all your friends ... and of course read as many books as you possibly can. Love from Lorraine PS. Will email you soon.

Here I am wondering what the wonderful Barbara Murison is up to, and this is what I discover. So sad to hear this news, Barbara! Kia kaha! I am sending the best of Wellington blue skies and happy days vibes to you!